An Irish beef, bacon and bean soup recipe

Sometimes during winter and even spring we're all just a little jealous of the animals who hibernate through the worst of the weather. Desperate times call for desperate measures and we found this seriously robust Irish recipe on the Irish food board, Bord Bia’s, site.

What could be better! Melt away the winter blues with this beef, bacon and bean soup recipe.

Drain and rinse again. Heat the oil in a large pot and sauté the bacon, beef, bay leaves, cumin, onion, garlic, celery and carrots.

Add the beans, tomatoes, vinegar, water and seasoning.

Bring to the boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 1½ hours.

Serving Suggestions

Serve topped with a slice of the bread and melted cheese.

Cook's Notes

Sometimes we use a ham hock or knuckle in place of the beef. Cook the ham hock with the beans for about two hours. Dice the meat and discard all fat and bones. Return the meat to the pot with the vegetables. Both soups are delicious and economical.